Brand name:
Zofran
Pronounced: ZOH-fran
Generic name:
Ondansetron hydrochloride
Other brand name:
Zofran ODT
Why is Zofran prescribed?
Zofran is used for the prevention of nausea and vomiting caused
by radiation therapy and chemotherapy for cancer, and, in some
cases, to prevent these problems following surgery.
Most important fact about Zofran
To ensure the maximum effect, it is important to take all doses
of Zofran exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
How should you take Zofran?
Your doctor will tell you how much drug to take and how often,
depending on the type of therapy you will be having.
Zofran is available in three forms: an oral solution, tablets
that you swallow with water, and orally disintegrating tablets that
can be swallowed with saliva alone (Zofran ODT). If you're taking
the orally disintegrating tablets, don't remove them from the
blister pack until it's time for a dose. Then peel off the foil
backing with dry hands, gently remove the tablet, and immediately
place it on your tongue. Do not attempt to push the tablets through
the foil.
--If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember.
--Storage instructions...
Store Zofran at room temperature. Protect from light. Keep the
drug in the carton it came in. Store oral solution bottles upright.
Zofran side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Zofran.
- Side effects may include:
Constipation,
diarrhea,
dizziness,
fatigue,
headache
- When Zofran is used to prevent nausea and vomiting after
surgery, the following side effects may occur:
Anxiety,
difficulty breathing,
difficulty urinating,
dizziness,
drowsiness,
female reproductive disorders,
fever,
headache,
itching,
low blood pressure,
shivers,
slow heartbeat
Why should Zofran not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to
ondansetron hydrochloride, you should not take Zofran. Make
sure that your doctor is aware of any drug reactions that you have
experienced.
Special warnings about Zofran
If drugs similar to Zofran (for instance, Anzemet or Kytril) have
given you a reaction, Zofran may cause one too.
If you suffer from phenylketonuria (an excess of the amino acid
phenylalanine) remember that Zofran contains this substance.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Zofran
No interactions with Zofran have been reported.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Zofran during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your
doctor immediately. Zofran may appear in breast milk and could
affect a nursing infant. If Zofran is essential to your
health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding
until your treatment with Zofran is finished.
Recommended dosage for Zofran
Dosage is the same for both regular and orally disintegrating
tablets. If you have poor liver function, you should take no more
than 8 milligrams of Zofran per day.
PREVENTION OF NAUSEA AND VOMITING DUE TO CHEMOTHERAPY
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
- Symptoms of Zofran overdose may include:
Low blood pressure and fainting,
sudden blindness,
severe constipation
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